By Atoyebi Nike
Employees of the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) on Tuesday shut down operations at the Federal Ministry of Finance in Abuja to protest unpaid allowances and salary arrears.
The aggrieved workers, under the banner of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), accused the Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, of failing to respond to repeated demands for their entitlements. According to the union, the dispute dates back to February 10, 2025, with several unresolved issues surrounding unpaid emoluments and the misapplication of agency funds.
Clad in red shirts and chanting solidarity songs, the protesters blocked the main entrance of the ministry building, effectively halting vehicular movement in and out of the premises. Several placards were displayed with slogans such as: “Wale Edun, pay us our allowances.”
A protest leader said the strike stems from unresolved issues since February, with some staff still owed March and April salaries.
They also alleged that the government is withholding all internally generated revenue from the agency, contrary to the policy allowing 50% retention, which has hindered its operations.
Attempts to get a response from the ministry were unsuccessful, as officials referred inquiries to the State House.
